In the spring of 2023 the Cranbrook RCMP Enhanced Response Unit engaged in an undercover project targeting the sale of illicit drugs in the community. As a result of this operation charges have now been laid against four individuals.

Each accused has been arrested and will be appearing in court at a future date. The four accused are:

Gary Edward Ruff, 59 – six counts of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance.

Kenneth Donald Leverington, 49 – four counts of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance.

Thomas Andre Fleury, 37 – three counts of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance.

Awet Petros Abraha, 36 – three counts of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance.

“This operation highlights one of the strategies investigators have available to target those who sell drugs in our community. Individuals who choose to earn their living in the drug trade are making a profit by selling substances known to cause harm and death. Cranbrook RCMP members will continue to work to identify these individuals and present them to the courts to be held accountable for their actions,” said Sgt. Stu Hert, Operations NCO for Cranbrook RCMP.

Cpl. Felicia Parker, in charge of the Enhanced Response Unit, confirms that her team remains focussed on the investigation of drug trafficking due to the damage it causes to the community.

“The harm caused by the sale and consumption of these toxic substances in our community is apparent” stated Parker.

Cranbrook RCMP is actively working to address the issues related to drug trafficking in the community and is asking residents to report any suspicious activity to Cranbrook RCMP at 250-489-3471.

e-KNOW file photo

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